Emergency and information numbers

There are numerous social organisations at work in Iceland, providing assistance and advice. One of the goals of most of these organisations is to draw attention to the rights of minority groups and various related issues.

The hospitals in Akureyri and Reykjavík (Landspítali) have separate wards for receiving victims of sexual violence. Stígamót and its sister organisations in the north of the country and in the West Fjords offer counselling and support.

In Reykjavík, shelters are operated for the homeless.

Numerous types of services are offered in Iceland for those who have difficulty adapting to or understanding Icelandic society. Such services include interpretation, translation, legal advice, social counselling and educational counselling.

If an individual or family experiences problems related to the use or abuse of alcohol or drugs, there are several social organisations and family-assistance groups where it is possible to seek assistance, advice and support.

If a woman becomes the victim of domestic violence, whether emotionally or physically, she can at any time seek refuge for herself and her children at the shelter for women, Kvennaathvarfið. Along with various other organisations, Kvennaathvarfið and Kvennaráðgjöf also offer telephone counselling for women and other support.

For individuals, single parents, and low-income families who have difficulties supporting themselves and their dependants financially, counselling and assistance is available from public and private organisations.

If problems arise between parents and children, or the family and a third party, counselling and support services are available at several locations.